Other Proposed Uses

The herb damiana has been used in Mexico for some time as a male
aphrodisiac.
1
Classic herbal literature of the nineteenth century
describes it as a "tonic," or general body strengthener.

What Is Damiana Used for Today?

Damiana continues to be a popular aphrodisiac for males. However, if it works at all, the effect appears to be rather mild. No scientific trials have been reported.

Damiana is also sometimes said to be helpful for treating
asthma
and other respiratory diseases,
depression
, digestive problems, menstrual disorders, and various forms of
sexual dysfunction
—for example,
impotence
in men and inability to achieve orgasm in women.
2,3
However, there is no real evidence that it works for any of these conditions.

Like the herb
uva ursi
, damiana contains arbutin, although at a concentration about 10 times lower. Arbutin is a urinary antiseptic, but the levels present in damiana are probably too small to make this herb a useful treatment for
bladder infections
.

Dosage

The proper dosage of damiana is 2 to 4 g taken 2 to 3 times daily, or as
directed on the label.

Safety Issues

Damiana appears to be safe at the recommended dosages. It appears on the FDA's GRAS (generally recognized
as safe) list and is widely used as a food flavoring. The only common side effect of damiana is occasional mild gastrointestinal distress. However, because damiana
contains low levels of cyanide-like compounds, excessive doses may be dangerous.
Safety in young children, pregnant or nursing women, or those with severe liver
or kidney disease is not established.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.